Wilbert Turner

Career Overview

Wilbert O. Turner has competed in the NBBA since 1985, spending the vast majority of his career with the Cleveland Scrappers. He also represented the Atlanta Eclipse at the 2013 World Series and the USA Legends at the 2021 World Series.

Known for his athleticism, leadership, and longevity, he has been a steady presence in Cleveland’s program for four decades.

World Series Recognition

Wilbert earned two World Series Defensive All-Star honors:

• 1994 at Fort Lauderdale, FL with 19 putouts
• 1995 at Denver, CO as Defensive Co-MVP with a 5.38 putout average, tied with Larry Darnell Williams of the Chicago Comets, recording 25 putouts

His 1995 performance remains one of the strongest defensive showings in Scrappers history.

Tournament Honors

In addition to his World Series accolades, Wilbert earned All-Star recognition at multiple regional tournaments:

• 1987 Eastern Regional at Binghamton, NY
• 1988 Eastern Regional at Binghamton, NY
• 1990 Eastern Regional at Binghamton, NY
• 1999 Defensive honor at the Ohio Invitational in Columbus, OH
• 2003 Offensive honor at the Viper Classic in Columbus, OH
• 2005 Offensive honor at Bolingbrook, IL

These awards reflect his versatility as both a defensive standout and a capable offensive contributor.

Leadership and Service

Wilbert was the 2010 Jim Quinn Award recipient, recognizing his dedicated service and leadership within the NBBA.

He has served the Cleveland Scrappers in numerous leadership roles, including as team president from 2008 through 2023. He also served on the NBBA Board of Directors.

Beyond beep baseball, Wilbert is an accomplished bowler and has earned numerous honors as a member and officer of the American Blind Bowlers Association, including international recognition.

Background and Early Impact

Raised in Marion, Alabama, Wilbert was a strong athlete in high school and college, competing in wrestling before relocating to Cleveland in 1975 to begin a career with the Department of the Treasury.

In the spring of 1985, he was introduced to beep baseball after being approached in the lobby of the Federal Building in downtown Cleveland. He attended his first practice soon after and immediately impressed teammates Marty Skutnik, Mike Berwald, and Bill Kemmett with his athletic ability.

One early defining moment came during a game in Ithaca, NY against the Binghamton Broom Beepers. Wilbert made a spectacular defensive play in deep left field, sprinting at full speed to his right and securing a remarkable putout. The play drew cheers from both teams and spectators and signaled the arrival of a special talent.

His addition, along with Leonard Williams joining the following year, helped elevate Cleveland’s competitiveness as the Scrappers prepared to compete at the NBBA level.

Mentor and Example

Wilbert is widely respected for his positivity, confidence, and willingness to mentor new players and volunteers. He dedicates significant time to encouraging young individuals who are blind and visually impaired to believe in their abilities and pursue success in sport and life.

A devoted family man, Wilbert and his late wife Thelia, who passed away in 2012, raised two daughters. His commitment to family, community, and sport has defined his legacy.

Legacy

Wilbert O. Turner represents durability, leadership, and athletic excellence. His defensive accolades, Jim Quinn Award recognition, decades of service, and mentorship have made him one of the foundational figures of the Cleveland Scrappers and a respected leader within the NBBA community.